Yale University to review controversial spinal fusion product

Chiropractic EconomicsAugust 5, 2011

August 5, 2011 — In a recent edition of Week in Review, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) reported on a series of controversial articles about rhBMP-2 (known commercially as Infuse) published recently in The Spine Journal.

The controversy surrounding the product prompted The U.S. Senate Finance Committee and U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate whether doctors conducting clinical trials on behalf of Medtronic Inc. (the manufactures of infuse) were aware that the product may cause medical complications.

Speculation first arose when information was released stating ties between the research authors and sponsors. In response to allegations and the investigation, Medtronic Inc. recently announced a $2.5 million grant for Yale University to independently review the safety and effectiveness of its rhBMP-2 product.